Champaign, Ill. – Hot September air will grip central Illinois Tuesday as temperatures climb near 90 degrees in Champaign, with storm chances returning by the weekend. Drivers along I-72 should prepare for hazy, sun-filled commutes and monitor for slick roads late Saturday when showers develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, Tuesday will bring sunshine and highs near 90, with light east-northeast winds under 7 mph. Conditions remain calm through midweek, but late-week shifts will deliver a different picture. Thursday stays hot with a high of 91, though clouds begin building by Friday. By Saturday, moisture surges north, raising the risk of scattered showers and locally heavy downpours.
Travelers should plan ahead for wet roadways and slower conditions along key routes, including I-72 and U.S. 45, by Saturday afternoon. Outdoor events in Champaign County could face interruptions, especially for tailgates or weekend sports. Keep rain gear ready and avoid standing water on streets.
Utility crews and emergency managers note the risk for isolated power interruptions during heavier showers, especially if thunderstorms build. Residents should charge devices in advance and check sump pumps as rainfall accumulates.
While the heat dominates the start of the week, cooler air brings a more seasonal feel by Sunday. Highs drop back into the lower 80s with more comfortable humidity levels.
Warnings remain limited now, but new advisories may post by late Friday if rainfall intensifies.
Five Day Forecast for Champaign, Illinois
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 90, low 60.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 90, low 60.
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 91, low 62.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 88, low 63.
- Saturday: Chance of showers, high 82, low 61.
